Queen Latifah may not have been the first female rapper, nor historically speaking even the best one, but she was the first of her genre to become a certifiable feminist icon. With her powerful lyrics and unarguable charisma, Queen Latifah transcended easily into roles on television or film. This may have prevented her from focusing on music; however she did pave the way for other female Rappers to follow. Realistically, she probably did not do enough for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, but her high celebrity status could propel her into a nomination.

As the leaders of the Lo-Fi movement in the 1990’s, Pavement developed a sizable cult following and were consistently among the top of critic’s “best of” lists during that decade. They have been called the definition of Independent Rock in the 90’s and it is easy to understand why when listening to their music. Their cryptic lyrics, penchant for feedback made them superstars in the critical music world; though not in the commercial world. Their high level of respect might be enough to counter their lack of sales (see the Velvet Underground) and a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction is possible.

Trent Reznor (Basically, the only official member of Nine Inch Nails) never laid claim to creating the Industrial genre. We will say however, that this is the man that popularized it and gave it just enough if a pop sensibility to make it popular in the early to mid 90’s. As this was the decade where everything “Alternative” was given a chance, the brooding star took advantage of the opportunity and generated some of the best live performances of the past two decades.

The Manic Street Preachers may have been virtually unknown in North America, but they set the English music scene ablaze in the 90’s. Going against the Shoegazing and Acid House movements, the Manics seemed determined to put the rebelliousness back in Rock and Roll. They pushed an anarchistic Rock agenda and though they were a band that achieved notoriety though not necessarily chart success. That probably does not translate into a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction.